South Korea Hotels

The Republic of South Korea occupies the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. On the east, is the Sea of Japan and well, Japan. West of Korea, is the Yellow Sea which reaches to China. Due to this close geographical position, all three nations have a lot in common, but overall different cultural characteristics.

Throughout the history, sometimes China, sometimes Japan tried to invade Korea, yet Koreans managed to survive to this day. Koreans are very proud of this fact. Perhaps the most globally significant occurrence in Korean history should be the Korean war of 1950ies. After the WWII, the Japan invasion was repelled and both North and South Korea declared independence in 1948. In 1950, North, backed by China, attacked the Southern territory. After the UN and US intervention, things settled in 1953. Form that date to today, South Korea had a steady growth and became not only a trading nation with some of the busiest ports in the region, but also a leading technology manufacturer (especially electronics and computer hardware) of the world.

The landscape of South Korea is considered rugged. The climate provides four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn generally give perfect temperatures and humidity rates. For general tourism, these seasons are the best. Summer is the rainy season. Temperatures of about 40 degrees Celsius with frequent downpours create a disturbing hot and humid period in July and August. It is best to avoid summer, unless you are planning a seaside holiday. Winters give enough snow for skiing.

Culture of Korea is mostly affected by Confucianism. Korean interpretation of Confucianism was stricter than Chinese. A class-based social system was implemented, kings at the top of the pyramid and slaves at the bottom. According to this class system, educated were superior to uneducated and men were superior to women. Even in today's world, women still struggle for equal treatment. On the plus side, hard work and education is highly favored. This was one of the main reasons of Korea's recent rapid development. Everything is rapid here. In the first hours of your visit, you'll notice that life flows somehow faster here. Everything runs fast-forward.

Whereas the life in cities is accelerated, time stops in the ancient temples hidden away by the stunning visuals of the countryside. The experience is serene and peaceful. Scenic mountains provide wonderful hiking opportunities. Korea's natural beauty really rewards exploring. Little rice growing villages and small fishing towns, fell like hidden away sanctuaries. Seoraksan National Park provides skiing facilities. Dadohae Haesang National Park is another point of focus.

The pulse of South Korea is in the urban areas. The rapid urbanization period after the war didn't spoil the cities. The biggest city, Seoul is an ultra-modern, well developed city. The Koreans possess a flair for decoration. Old was not killed by the new, instead, hints of traditional architecture was beautifully carried on to the metropolis. The people had their share of modernization too. While most people don't follow a particular religion, Christianity and Buddhism are equally favored by about a quarter of the population each. In rural areas, old traditions are somehow carried on stronger. Football and surprisingly baseball is very popular. Although prices are not very reasonable compared to other Asian cities, shopping opportunities are still very good, especially on electronics front.

Authentic Korean cuisine catches a lot of attention. It may not look as striking at first, but if you keep an open mind, you might even be addicted. Some affection of course, is seen from neighboring Chinese and Japanese cuisines. Chilies, exquisite spices, and garlic are widely used. Along with excellent seafood, generally the meals are based around soups, rice and meat. Korean style barbecue of in special sauce marinaded meat is very tasty and popular. Rice dishes, noodles and seafood are common. Metal instead of wooden Chopsticks are preferred by Koreans.

Compared to other Asian countries, Korea is an alcohol heaven! The locals are very keen on their drinking habits. On the other hand, nightlife is not as westernized.

Korea has a very nice mix of urban areas, ancient monuments and great outdoors for the tourists. Korea might be the right choice for your next travel especially if the great cuisine sounds intriguing to you.